Learn to control groundhogs

Back in midwinter when it seemed as though the cold and snow would never end, the celebration of Groundhog Day on Feb. 2 was a fun diversion reminding us spring and warmer weather would eventually arrive. The folklore surrounding Punxsutawney Phil and his brethren groundhogs is amusing.

But the reality of the furry woodland creature is that it can be the arch enemy of homeowners.

Here are some facts about groundhogs, and how to manage them if one appears in your yard.

Marmota monax, the groundhog, also known as a woodchuck, is a chunky creature weighing up to 10 pounds. Its length ranges from 16 to 20 inches plus the tail, which can be 4 to 7 inches long. While open farm land is its first choice for habitat, the groundhog has made a comfortable home in the suburban landscape where plenty of food and shelter make life easy for it. Often, a groundhog will construct its burrow along stone walls, at the base of trees, and even along a building’s foundation.

Groundhog burrows can be identified by the large mound of excavated earth at the main entrance. On this mound, which is constantly renewed by debris from within, the groundhog frequently sits to look for danger. The entrance is 10 to 12 inches in diameter, and they also have secondary entrances. These tend to be hidden and dug from below so mounds are not seen.

The animal’s feeding and burrowing habits conflict with human interests. Damage often occurs on farms, in home gardens, orchards, nurseries and around buildings. Damage to crops such as alfalfa, soybeans, beans, squash, tomatoes and

peas can be costly and extensive. A homeowner may lose his or her entire tomato patch. Fruit trees and ornamental shrubs may be damaged by a groundhog as it gnaws on woody vegetation. Mounds of earth from the excavated burrow systems and holes formed at burrow entrances present a hazard to farm equipment, animals and humans. On occasion, burrowing can weaken building foundations.

In Pennsylvania, groundhogs are classified as game animals. Game protection is removed when they damage personal property. In that case, groundhogs can be controlled by the property owner using lawful means. If a homeowner does not feel comfortable with any means of control, there are many wildlife pest control companies who can do it.

If the area is small, poultry wire or 2-inch woven mesh fencing can be installed. With a 3-foot minimum above ground, the fence should have 12 inches buried in the ground, with 6 inches bent in an L shape pointing away from areas that are being protected. Scarecrows can provide temporary relief from groundhog damage. In order to maximize their impact, move them regularly and incorporate a high level of human activity wherever you see them.

There are no repellents or toxicants that are for use on groundhogs. There are other products such as fumigants and gas cartridges available at home and garden centers which are labeled for use on groundhogs. Carefully follow the directions because these are dangerous products.

There are live traps homeowners can use as well. Place the trap near fresh damage or at the main entrance of the burrow. Use fresh bait such as apple slices, carrots and lettuce. Be careful once the animal is trapped. Give some thought to a relocation area at least 10 miles away and where the groundhog will not be the pest it was to you.

Penn State Master Gardeners in Lackawanna County has available a free publication on groundhogs and their control. Call 570-963-6842 or email: LackawannaMG@psu.edu for a copy.

STEVE WARD is Master Gardener coordinator for Penn State Extension in Lackawanna County.

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